Congress revolt: Assam's rebel minister Himanta Biswa Sarma quits

By Agencies |Posted 21-Jul-2014

Senior Congress minister in the Assam government Himanta Biswas Sarma met the state Governor and submitted his resignation. He claimed he met the Governor along with 38 MLAs and expressed non confidence in the Chief Minister

Guwahati: Assam's rebel minister Himanta Biswa Sarma Monday resigned from the state cabinet, saying it was not possible "mentally, physically and politically" to work under Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.

Sarma, who was holding health and education portfolios, submitted his resignation to Governor Janaki Ballabh Patnaik.

Addressing a press conference here after tendering his resignation, Sarma said he felt that continuing under Gogoi was not possible for him "mentally, physically and politically".

Sarma said he would continue to oppose the state government's anti-people policies within and outside the legislature.

"We are going to play the role of a constructive opposition in the assembly," said Sarma, who is believed to be leading a group of dissident Congress legislators.